Sol Messiah: Elevating The Culture

Let’s hop right into this single / video, “Roc Steady,” featuring Sa-Roc— Tell me about this particular track; how did it come to fruition?

When I was recording my album I knew that I had to give the people an extremely lyrical, bombastic joint by Sa-Roc, so I decided to go with almost a Reggae Boom-Bap sound. Needless to say she wrecked it!

Of course “Roc Steady” comes courtesy of your solo LP, GOD CMPLX — Conceptually, what does that title represent both to and for you?

I am a member of the Bronx chapter Rock Steady Crew and I was recruited by Crazy Legs, leader of that crew. It’s also an homage to Sa-Roc‘s name, so I brought in some of my past and my future including her.

How then does this new material(s) either differ and / or compare to previous Sol Messiah entries?

All my prior albums were instrumental. This will be the first time that I included other emcees on my projects.

GOD CMPLX is a Rhymesayers Entertainment release — What particular string of events actually led up to this inking?

I had a partnership with them [Rhymesayers] for Sa-Roc about 5 or 6 years ago, so over the years they saw the potential in my production abilities from the success of Sa-Roc releases and we decided to go with it.

Reflecting, tell me your whole inception into music — When did you first become interested in it? And, how did it all begin for Sol Messiah?

Around the age of 12 years old, I became a DJ / breaker. Through that, I was deejaying for different rappers and I got more and more into producing original content for them. This is around 1982, so by 1988 I was a fully blown producer and making music with Hip Hop.

Now you’re a native of Atlanta, GA, correct? So growing up in ‘A-Town,’ who all did / do you consider to be your strongest musical influences?

Growing up in Atlanta, I was always a part of the marching band and /or Jazz band in school. I had a very musical background. There weren’t many local early ‘80’s Hip Hop cats to look up to. Most of the influences I got from Hip Hop came from connections from up north, in particular New York. There were a few people, but in the area that I was in, Atlanta, I’m considered a pioneer.

Having said that, how do you classify your overall sound and / or style?

I would classify my sound and style as a very soulful, melodic, Boom-Bap infusion.

Where does your moniker originally derive from?

My moniker Sol Messiah is actually what we call a righteous name. Growing up we studied our cultural backgrounds of African heritage. The elders in our community taught us that everything is in a name. There is power in your name. Around 1989 I was given my righteous name of “Sol Messiah.” It’s actually not a Hip Hop moniker, it’s my family name. Both my children have the name [Messiah].

Switching gears here…

What do you feel will be the key to your longevity?

Well, I’ve been doing Hip Hop professionally full time for 34 years since 1988. I’ve been blessed to produce for acts such as TLC, Boyz II Men, Dead Prez and Jay-Z, Nappy Roots and many more. Now, my concentration is continuing that legacy.

What do you want people to get from your music?

I want my music to have the same effect that the music of Quincy Jones, Stevie Wonder, Earth, Wind & Fire and Public Enemy and KRS-One have on people. I want my music to move people and make them feel something.

On a more serious note, are you happy with the current state of Hip Hop?

For the most part I would say yes. The only problem is mainstream music is more focused on the negative aspects of our community. People have to dig a little deeper to find what we call wholesome, conscious, real Hip Hop.

Do you have any other outside / additional aspirations, maybe even completely away from music?

Yeah actually, I want to open grocery stores that serve underserved communities. Allowing those underserved communities to have access to healthy alternatives in food. The food that is accessible to underserved communities is killing the people.

To date, what has been your greatest career moment(s), at least thus far anyway?

There are too many to name. In the last couple of years, I would say it was Sa-Roc and I releasing her first single “Forever” that I produced. That song hit 5 million views on YouTube organically as an underground artist.

What’s an average day like for you?

An average day for me would be me rising, finding some good vegan food to eat in the morning, then turning on my beat machine and / or turntables. Also trying to convince Sa-Roc that whatever beat I’m making is gonna be a classic song by her. Lol! I create music every day, if I’m not visiting my children or grandchildren.

Please discuss how you interact with and respond to fans…

I don’t really like the word “fans.” I like to call them family. We are a group with common interests and a love for music. We are one. I like to encourage them to reach for their dreams in an artistic way, whatever that may be.

What is your favorite part about this line of work? Your least favorite? And, why?

My favorite part of what I do is seeing the reaction that people get when they feel something from the music that I create. What I least like is when I’m working with and promoting Sa-Roc, people try to box her in because of her gender. The society that we live in has a habit of attempting to suppress the female gender. I hate that.

What advice would you have for someone wanting to follow in your footsteps?

Build your skill first before you present it to the world. Master your craft and then share it.

Lastly, what’s next for Sol Messiah?

I will continue to DJ for crowds worldwide and produce music for myself, Sa-Roc and my other family of artists till the day I leave the planet earth.

Is there anything I left out, or just plain forgot to mention?

Nope.

Any “closing” thought(s) for our readers?

I would love for people to be mindful of how we treat each other. It is very important that we attempt to share positive energies and upliftment at all times. Seek knowledge, wisdom and understanding in order to elevate in your life. Peace.